May 17, 2016
A truly global group of talent from the exhibition industry has been selected as the first-ever recipients of the new “Next Generation Leadership Grant” launched by UFI – The Global Association of the Exhibition Industry. The program promotes the next generation leadership in the exhibition industry, who show clear initiatives in driving change and innovation in their respective area. Out of the numerous applications from 16 different countries, a jury, chaired by UFI President Sergey Alexeev, selected the five recipients of the grant. They are (in alphabetical order): • Adeline Larroque… more
May 16, 2016
LIGHTFAIR International 2016 set new trade show floor and West Coast attendance records during its five-day run in San Diego Convention Center, according to Jeffrey L. Portman, Sr., vice chairman, president and COO of LFI managing partner AmericasMart Atlanta. “The convergence of light and technology marked every dimension of LFI 2016 with new product introductions, new design concepts and new connectivity setting clear direction for the way forward,” Portman said.  He added, “We expect our 2016 event to have transformative impact on the world of lighting design now and for years to come… more
May 14, 2016
Margaret Pederson entered the exhibition world by happenstance, like many in the field.  She studied marketing (along with international business and law), but not exhibitions 101, 201 or 301.  Pederson’s education included the University of Virginia, London School of Economics and Harvard Business School, none of which had a single course in exhibitions, conferences or events.  Yet, HBS did have Bob Krakoff as an alumni and that fortuitous meeting was her introduction to the exhibition world. Pederson shed some light on her time in the industry to TSNN. TSNN: How did you get… more
May 14, 2016
EMS 2016 took place in Denver May 4-6 at the Colorado Convention Center, and with it, more than 1,300 attendees and 125 exhibitors, an increase from 2015.  “As the industry evolves, so does the Experiential Marketing Summit,” said Event Marketer Magazine Group Editor Jessica Heasley. “We continue to focus on the content and the overall experience.” Both the Pepsi and Chobani keynotes were the topic of conversation with attendees, especially the insights brought by Chobani Chief Marketing Officer Peter McGuinness.  “Everything done well can be an experience for your customer, and… more
May 12, 2016
For the seventh year in row, Trade Show News Network will hold its prestigious and original TSNN Awards program that honors the top fastest-growing shows in attendance and net square footage Oct. 28-30 in Atlantic City, N.J. The list of 50 shows that will be feted during the three-day, celebration-filled weekend can be found listed below and also HERE.  “The Top 50 fastest-growing show winners were chosen by their show’s growth rate between 2013-2015 in attendance and net square footage,” said TSNN President and Editor-in-Chief Rachel Wimberly. She added, “We are really excited to fete… more
May 11, 2016
The Center for Exhibition Industry Research (CEIR) announced today the release of the second report in its newest series, 2016 Attendee Retention Insights Part Two: Exhibition Floor Features that Build a Loyal Alumni Attendee Audience. This landmark body of research offers organizers a comprehensive resource to help understand the profile of attendees that visit an exhibition repeatedly and the content that turns them into loyal customers. "Response to this new study is strong,” said CEIR President and CEO Brian Casey, CEM. “Clearly organizers are looking for direction on… more
May 10, 2016
The digitization of events, as well as the proliferation of platforms, applications, and devices designed to “retool” traditional trade shows, is proceeding much more quickly than many are prepared for. In his forthcoming book, “Future of the Tradeshow Industry, the Modern Digital Tradeshow (MDT”), Francis Friedman dives deep into digital transformation, increasing competition from online marketing channels and private corporate events, and the need to redouble efforts on improving the customer experience. In this TSNN Webinar, moderator Michelle Bruno will lead a discussion… more
May 10, 2016
Asian Attractions Expo (AAE) 2016's trade showfloor continues to grow at a record-breaking rate with 11,500 net square meters of exhibit space reserved by more than 350 companies. The strong interest by international manufacturer and supplier companies to showcase their new products and services is reflective of the growth of the attractions industry in the Asia-Pacific region and China specifically. AAE 2016 takes place June 13-16 at the Shanghai New International Exhibition Centre in China, with the showfloor open June 14-16. The event is the region's premier global conference… more
May 10, 2016
Following its success in 2015, the 12th edition of Meat Expo China is scheduled to run Nov. 14-16, once again at the Shanghai New International Expo Centre in China. Organised by Messe Frankfurt (Shanghai) Co Ltd and Circulation Industry Promotion Center of the Ministry of Commerce of P.R. China (CIPC), the annual show compiles one of the most comprehensive showcases on cutting-edge technologies and machinery, meat and meat-based products as well as total solutions for the meat-processing industry in China. Richard Li, general manager of Messe Frankfurt (Shanghai) Co Ltd, the… more
May 10, 2016
Candied bacon and cold beer were just some of the offerings that whet the appetites of attendees at the Reed Exhibitions’ National Hardware Show that took place May 5-7 at the Las Vegas Convention Center. A global gathering of products for DIY home improvement, the event spanned about 600,000 net sq. ft., similar to last year, and featured 2,800 exhibitors, including 700 first-timers. It’s expected to attract about 30,000 attendees. “All our buying categories, from garden retailers to wholesales, are up,” said Rich Russo, industry vice president for the National Hardware Show. “The sentiment… more
Partner Voices
  MGM Resorts is renowned for its exceptional service and diverse venue options across Las Vegas, Detroit, Springfield, National Harbor, Biloxi, and Atlantic City, providing flexible spaces for meetings of any size. Beyond these offerings, MGM Resorts distinguishes itself through a strong commitment to social responsibility and sustainability, making it an ideal choice for your next meeting.  At the core of MGM Resorts' company values is its platform, "Focused on What Matters," dedicated to meeting customer needs while advancing socially responsible practices. This commitment is evident in several key areas:  Protecting Natural Resources  MGM Resorts is home to industry-leading recycling, renewable electricity and water conservation programs. Some highlights include a cogeneration power plant at ARIA, producing ultra-efficient electricity; one of America’s largest contiguous rooftop solar arrays atop the convention center at Mandalay Bay; and onsite wells that provide water for the celebrated Fountains of Bellagio, avoiding reliance on precious Colorado River water. These efforts and many more save on natural resources while boosting attendee satisfaction.  Committed to Community  Always striving to be good neighbors, MGM Resorts works to avoid food waste and combat food insecurity with the Feeding Forward program. In partnership with local food banks, they safely divert unserved food to food insecure members of the community. Since 2016, over 5 million meals have been provided, highlighting MGM Resorts' commitment to minimizing food waste and addressing community needs.  MGM Resorts supports clients in their responsible-meetings efforts, not only with efficient venues but also waste-reducing décor and signage; sustainable food and beverage options; and outreach to help planners communicate sustainability efforts to attendees. What’s more, they offer a Mindful Meetings series that puts attendee wellness first—through fitness and mindfulness activities, and in give-back events with local charity organizations.   Fostering Diversity & Inclusion  To MGM Resorts, a diverse and talented workforce is essential to success. By cultivating innovative strategies that consider multiple perspectives and viewpoints, the company creates an inclusive workplace culture that benefits its employees and community. MGM Resorts takes pride in being a welcoming home for veterans, individuals with disabilities, people from diverse backgrounds, LGBTQ+ community members, and more. This commitment to inclusion is reflected in the company's recruitment and hiring practices and its social responsibility initiatives. From the workplace to the community, MGM Resorts' commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion remains unwavering, and its efforts continue to create a more equitable and sustainable world for all.  MGM Resorts offers unparalleled service and venue options while standing out for its proactive approach to sustainability and community engagement. Choosing MGM Resorts for your next meeting means aligning with a company that values social responsibility, efficiency, and attendee satisfaction, ensuring a meaningful and impactful event experience.